News
November 06, 2025
Jack Rowston outlines just why it is so hard to go from the RFL to O and M
Corowa-Rutherglen's best and fairest cites the big difference.
**Jack Rowston explains why switching codes from Rugby League to Australian Rules football is a tough task.**
Corowa-Rutherglen's star player, Jack Rowston, has shed light on the significant challenges facing athletes transitioning from Rugby Football League (RFL) to the Ovens and Murray Football League (O and M). Rowston, recently crowned the club's best and fairest, speaks from experience and observation, highlighting the distinct skill sets and physical demands that separate the two football codes.
While both sports are physically demanding and require a high level of athleticism, Rowston emphasizes the fundamental differences in gameplay. "The running patterns are completely different," he explained. "In League, you're often making short, sharp bursts, whereas in Aussie Rules, it's more about sustained running and covering a large area of the ground."
The difference in ball handling is another key hurdle. League focuses on catching and passing a smaller, more pointed ball, while Aussie Rules involves marking an oval-shaped ball often in contested situations. The kicking game, a cornerstone of Aussie Rules, is virtually absent in League, demanding a completely new skill acquisition for those making the switch.
Rowston also points out the tactical complexities of Aussie Rules. "There are so many different positions and roles within a team in Aussie Rules," he says. "Understanding the structures, the zones, and the rotations takes time and a lot of learning." This contrasts with the more straightforward structure of League, where roles are often more clearly defined.
Beyond the technical and tactical aspects, Rowston acknowledges the mental adjustment required. "It's not just about being physically fit; it's about understanding the game," he stated. "You need to learn to read the play, anticipate movements, and make split-second decisions." This mental agility is crucial for success in Aussie Rules, requiring a different mindset compared to the more structured play of League.
Rowston's insights offer valuable understanding for anyone considering the code switch, highlighting the dedication and hard work needed to overcome the inherent differences between the RFL and the O and M. His experience serves as a reminder that while athleticism can translate across sports, mastering the specific skills and strategies of Aussie Rules is a significant undertaking.
Corowa-Rutherglen's star player, Jack Rowston, has shed light on the significant challenges facing athletes transitioning from Rugby Football League (RFL) to the Ovens and Murray Football League (O and M). Rowston, recently crowned the club's best and fairest, speaks from experience and observation, highlighting the distinct skill sets and physical demands that separate the two football codes.
While both sports are physically demanding and require a high level of athleticism, Rowston emphasizes the fundamental differences in gameplay. "The running patterns are completely different," he explained. "In League, you're often making short, sharp bursts, whereas in Aussie Rules, it's more about sustained running and covering a large area of the ground."
The difference in ball handling is another key hurdle. League focuses on catching and passing a smaller, more pointed ball, while Aussie Rules involves marking an oval-shaped ball often in contested situations. The kicking game, a cornerstone of Aussie Rules, is virtually absent in League, demanding a completely new skill acquisition for those making the switch.
Rowston also points out the tactical complexities of Aussie Rules. "There are so many different positions and roles within a team in Aussie Rules," he says. "Understanding the structures, the zones, and the rotations takes time and a lot of learning." This contrasts with the more straightforward structure of League, where roles are often more clearly defined.
Beyond the technical and tactical aspects, Rowston acknowledges the mental adjustment required. "It's not just about being physically fit; it's about understanding the game," he stated. "You need to learn to read the play, anticipate movements, and make split-second decisions." This mental agility is crucial for success in Aussie Rules, requiring a different mindset compared to the more structured play of League.
Rowston's insights offer valuable understanding for anyone considering the code switch, highlighting the dedication and hard work needed to overcome the inherent differences between the RFL and the O and M. His experience serves as a reminder that while athleticism can translate across sports, mastering the specific skills and strategies of Aussie Rules is a significant undertaking.
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Sports